Decision details

To summarise the findings of consultation on proposals to review service provision for outdoor bowls facilities in Leeds, and make recommendations on the future management of Council owned and maintained bowling facilities.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report summarising the findings of the consultation exercise undertaken in respect of proposals to review service provision for outdoor bowls facilities in Leeds, and which made recommendations on the future management of Council owned and maintained bowling facilities.

The Executive Member for Environment paid tribute to and thanked the Leeds Bowling Association for the Association’s contribution to and partnership approach throughout the development of the proposals detailed within the submitted report.

Members welcomed the way in which the proposals had been developed in response to the consultation and engagement which had taken place.

Emphasis was placed upon the need to ensure that the promotion of outdoor bowling as part of an active lifestyle was encouraged. In addition, it was requested that as part of any changes to bowling provision, a proactive approach was taken by the Council towards the maintenance of local clubs’ facilities, with the role of local Ward Councillors in such matters being highlighted. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the introduction of a charge which would mean an income recovery level of £62,000 in 2014/2015 rising to £78,000 in 2017/2018, as set out within paragraph 4.2 of the submitted report, be approved. (Based upon current membership levels, this would represent a season ticket cost of £25 in 2014/2015 rising to £31.50 in 2017/2018).

(b)  That the removal of 6 bowling greens from multiple green sites, as set out within paragraph 4.6 of the submitted report, saving £16,000 per annum, be approved.

(c)  That approval be given for bowling clubs to meet the costs associated with their own direct use of gas and electricity, saving £30,000 per annum.

(d)  That the following be noted:-

·  The season ticket cost will be implemented in March 2014 and will be applied from the 2014/15 season onwards, as highlighted within paragraph 4.3 of the submitted report.

·  That those greens identified for closure will no longer be maintained for the purpose of bowling from March 2014.

·  That where feasible, appropriate arrangements will be established in order for bowling clubs to meet the costs associated with their own direct use of gas and electricity by March 2014.

·  That the Chief Officer for Parks and Countryside will be responsible for the delivery of these recommendations and associated actions.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor Golton required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on the matters included within this minute)

A consultation document was prepared and circulated to all Leeds City Council maintained clubs, all ward members and crown green bowling associations. The document was also available for download and comment on ‘Talking Point’. To supplement the consultation document a meeting was held with every council maintained bowling club and officers from the Parks and Countryside service to allow a more detailed discussion.